High school track: Boys track & field athlete of the year

Gilmour's Alex Clapacs celebrates his state championship win in the Division III boys 400 meter dash during the state final track and field championships in Columbus, June 7, 2014.

BOYS TRACK AND FIELD ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Alex Clapacs
Gilmour, senior
He replaced his skates with spikes, and it’s been magic ever since for Clapacs, who repeats as The News-Herald boys track and field athlete of the year. At the state meet earlier this month, the Gilmour senior captured the Division III state title in the 800-meter run in 1:53.05, opened the Lancers’ 4x800 relay, which won its second straight D-III crown with a 7:55.5, and was on the third-place 4x400 for the D-III state team runner-up. The Cornell recruit’s 800 time would have been second in D-II and third in D-I and was less than a second off an area record that has stood since 1974. The former Gilmour hockey player evolved into one of the area’s all-time best in middle distance and a program figurehead. He graduates as a three-time state champion, one of only 25 athletes in area history to capture three or more state titles in individual events and relays. Find out more in a video interview right now on News-Herald.com.
— Chris Lillstrung

COACH OF THE YEAR
Erik Schroeder, Lake Catholic
Schroeder guided the Cougars to their first North Coast League title, the Division II Perry District team crown and had four individuals and one relay qualify for the state meet in a unprecedented year for the program. The continued development of the entire roster, including the ascension of junior Matt Ludwig as a premier multi-event athlete, has been evident. With a strong junior class, 2015 could be special as well.